Rockford 5, Hudsonville 1: Rockford wins first district title since 2009 over conference rival Hudsonville

The Rockford girls soccer team had a rough path through the Division 1 district tournament, facing conference rivals Grand Haven and Hudsonville for the third time this season.

"When you play two teams in your league three times, it's very difficult," Rockford coach Steve Thomas said. "But I think our girls are playing their best soccer of the season right now. We're peaking at the right time."

Rockford defeated host Hudsonville 5-1 on Saturday to win its first district title since 2009.

Rockford put aside a shaky first-half performance, scoring three goals in the second half, led by two each from Morgan Irwin and Amanda Puisto.

"We were a little tight tonight in the first half," Thomas said. "We scored early, but then Hudsonville hit one off the post and then scored five minutes later. That really put us on our heels.

"At halftime we were able to relax and talk about a few things to get organized, and we opened up in the second half."

Allie DeVries also scored for the Rams, while Rylie Dalton added four assists.

"I couldn't be more proud of our girls and happy for our families," Thomas said. "Rockford is the best community to coach in, and I'm excited to see the reaction and celebration afterward. I'm grateful to see the girls' hard work pay off."

The Rams advance to the regional tournament Tuesday against yet another conference rival.

Rockford and Grandville face off at 3:30 p.m. at Portage Northern High School.

"They beat us twice this year," Thomas said. "Both games were competitive and both teams mirror each other athletically and how hard they play.

"We're excited to face them for a third time. We're confident with how we're playing."